Day 12 - April 7, 2004 (3:44
a.m.) This is Sarah Henley reporting from Gorak Shep at 16,962 ft. Today we
hiked from our lovely campsite to Gorak Shep. Upon reaching Gorak Shep, we
ascended to 18,373 ft. Kala Pattar, which means “the black rock” in Hindi.
This is the most popular viewpoint in the area for Everest and the Khumbu
Icefall. From the top, we spotted Everest basecamp and the many covered tents
in the distance. After a late lunch, everyone retired to their tents. Hiking
Kala Pattar definitely took it out of people. Everyone is feeling the effects
of the thin air but excited about reaching such an elevation and enjoying the
incredible views.

Tomorrow we arrive to
basecamp just in time for the puja – a spiritual ceremony to wish the climbers
a safe travel up the mountain that is performed by a Buddhist Lama.

Day 11 - April 6, 2004 (3:33
a.m.) This is Sara Henley reporting from just above Pheriche at 16,430 ft.
This morning we woke to a gorgeous blue sky and had a great two hour hike. We
are definitely in the most beautiful camp spot to date --- right in the middle
of a sandy basin beside the lateral moraine along the Khumbu Glacier. The
beautiful morning views have now given way to an afternoon storm.

Tomorrow we climb Kala Pattar
which stands at 18,373 ft. overlooking the Everest basecamp. Here we will have
the premier view of the highest mountain in the world. While the trekkers
climb Kala Pattar, the climbers plan to hike to basecamp to get settled for
their exciting journey ahead. The trekkers will catch-up with their rest in a
day at base camp. (Message may have cut off.)